DHC's New CM Series: Featuring Kazunari Ninomiya and Ayana Shiramoto
DHC Corporation, headquartered in Minato, Tokyo, has released a new CM series titled "Kantoku to Watashi" featuring renowned actor Kazunari Ninomiya and rising star Ayana Shiramoto. This collaboration marks their first appearance together on-screen. The series will be broadcast on January 2, 2026, during NTV's coverage of the 102nd Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip College Ekiden Race, alongside additional content on platforms including TVer, the DHC special website, and their official social media channels.
Purpose and Theme of the CM Series
The narrative of this CM revolves around DHC's philosophy, "Shiawase wo, Futsuu ni" (Happiness, just like usual). It invites viewers to ponder the question: "What if you had another chance at life?" By exploring this hypothetical situation, the CM encourages a deeper appreciation of the happiness that exists in everyday moments.
Key Scenes and Concepts
The film opens with Ninomiya interviewing Shiramoto, creating an engaging dialogue. Within this setting, Shiramoto plays an athlete, recalling her time as a passionate runner in her school days. The CM features dramatic reenactments of an alternate reality where both characters step into their roles; Shiramoto as a competitor and Ninomiya as her coach, navigating through an imagined life that intertwines with their interview.
The storytelling encourages the audience to reflect on the daily happiness they might take for granted, making it relatable and heartfelt.
Overview of the CM Episodes
- "Kantoku to Watashi - If I Were to Be Reborn" (60 seconds)
- "Kantoku to Watashi - More Naturally" (30 seconds)
- - Release Date: January 2, 2026
- - Broadcast Locations:
1. NTV's 102nd Tokyo-Hakone Round-Trip Ekiden Race
2. TVer advertisements
3. DHC Special Website
DHC Special Site
- Beginning December 16, 2025, making-of footage and special interviews will also be available.
4. DHC Official Social Media:
- Instagram: @dhc_official_jp
- X: @DHC_JP
- TikTok: @dhc.official
Behind-the-Scenes Insights
Shiramoto underwent rigorous training to convincingly portray an athlete, demonstrating her dedication by performing multiple runs at an athletics track. On the other hand, Ninomiya showcased his remarkable agility during his scenes, with minimal preparation. The staff was astounded by their impressive athletic skills, with many expressing their admiration for the two celebrities.
Selected Interview Highlights
Q: How was the filming experience?
Ninomiya: It was an enjoyable shoot for me (laughs). Though it was a bit chilly outside, Shiramoto was exceptional, jumping over hurdles continuously.
Shiramoto: I had a great time! I felt like I was back in peak condition, reminiscent of my 14-year-old self on the track.
Q: How do you feel about your roles?
Ninomiya: I aimed to embody the ideal "coach" that our director envisioned, as there are many types of coaches with unique characteristics.
Shiramoto: Doing hurdles brought back memories of my middle school experiences, rekindling the emotions of tension and frustration at that age.
Q: What were you focused on during filming?
Ninomiya: Shiramoto's hurdle jumps were truly impressive!
Shiramoto: I owe much to Ninomiya's positive presence; it eased my nerves significantly. I wore my personal sneakers during the shoot, which were the same spikes I wore back in my running days.
Exciting Promotions Following the CM Release
Starting December 16, DHC will offer special video content featuring Ninomiya and Shiramoto exclusively on their online shop. This interactive series, dubbed